ICCR to Host International Yoga Conference in Durban, South Africa The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) will host an international yoga conference in Durban, South Africa, from September 23-25, 2023. The conference, titled “Yoga for Health and Harmony,” aims to bring together yoga practitioners, researchers, and policymakers from around the world to explore the benefits of yoga for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The conference will feature keynote speeches by renowned yoga experts, workshops on various aspects of yoga, and discussions on the latest research on yoga’s impact on health and well-being. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and learn about the latest advancements in yoga therapy and education. “This conference is a testament to the growing popularity and recognition of yoga as a valuable tool for promoting health and harmony,” said ICCR President Dr. Vinay Sahasrabuddhe. “We are delighted to host this event in South Africa, a country with a strong tradition of yoga and a deep appreciation for its transformative power.” The conference is expected to draw participants from various countries, including India, South Africa, the United States, and Europe. It will provide a platform for the exchange of knowledge, the promotion of cross-cultural understanding, and the strengthening of the global yoga community. ICCR, the Indian government’s cultural outreach organization, has been actively promoting yoga around the world through its network of cultural centers and collaborations with local organizations. The international yoga conference in Durban is part of ICCR’s ongoing efforts to share the benefits of yoga with people from all walks of life and to foster closer cultural ties between India and other countries.War Veterans Dispute Credentials of Ambassador MatemadandaWar Veterans Dispute Credentials of Ambassador Matemadanda A faction within the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) has challenged the legitimacy of Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Mozambique, Victor Matemadanda, as a genuine war veteran. This comes amidst intense competition for leadership positions ahead of the organization’s congress next month. Matemadanda, a former general secretary of the ZNLWVA, is vying to become its national president. Perceived as an ally of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, he is seen as a potential force in extending the 81-year-old leader’s term beyond 2028. However, Andreas Ethan Matibela, who leads a vocal faction within the ZNLWVA, has questioned Matemadanda’s military credentials and claims that he was not present during the liberation struggle. Matibela stated that the association is investigating the matter to determine the authenticity of Matemadanda’s war veteran status. Matemadanda has dismissed these claims, stating that he underwent proper training and was investigated by a commission appointed by former President Robert Mugabe. He maintains that he is a genuine war veteran and that the recent attacks are part of the campaign for the national presidency. Other candidates vying for the position include Moffat Marashwa and former President Chris Mutsvangwa, who is said to lead a separate faction within the ZNLWVA. The race for leadership is expected to be fiercely contested, with various interest groups within the war veterans sector backing different candidates. The dispute over Matemadanda’s credentials highlights the ongoing internal divisions and power struggles within the ZNLWVA. The outcome of the upcoming congress is likely to shape the organization’s future direction and its role in Zimbabwe’s political landscape.ICCR Hosts International Yoga Conference in Durban, South Africa The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) is set to host an international yoga conference in Durban, South Africa. The conference, to be held from March 8-10, 2023, will bring together yoga practitioners, teachers, and experts from around the world. The conference aims to promote yoga as a holistic practice for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It will feature workshops, seminars, and discussions on various aspects of yoga, including its history, philosophy, and modern applications. The conference will also showcase the diversity of yoga traditions from different parts of India. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from experienced yoga masters and interact with fellow practitioners from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of Culture, Government of India, will inaugurate the conference. He will be joined by the High Commissioner of India to South Africa, Jaideep Sarkar, and other dignitaries. The conference is expected to attract a large number of participants from South Africa and other countries in the region. It is part of ICCR’s ongoing efforts to promote Indian culture and heritage abroad.